A ported intake manifold is a factory manifold whose runners and plenum have been machined to reduce restriction and smooth airflow. On the GM 3.6 V6, Tracy Lewis Performance quotes gains in the 20 horsepower range when paired with a ported throttle body, and 25-30 horsepower with the 80mm throttle body.
Unlike a throttle body, which addresses a single restriction, porting the manifold improves runner efficiency across the whole intake tract, so the effect is felt through the RPM range rather than at one point in it.
What the porting does
Precision porting reduces restriction and optimizes runner efficiency, letting the engine breathe more freely across the RPM range. The result is a more responsive engine that pulls harder everywhere, with crisper throttle response and stronger mid-range.
Why it pairs with a throttle body
The two modifications address different restrictions in the same air path, which is why the quoted gains are stated as a pair:
| Combination | Quoted gain |
|---|---|
| Ported manifold + ported throttle body | ~20 hp |
| Ported manifold + 80mm throttle body | 25-30 hp |
Porting the manifold alone leaves the throttle body as the remaining restriction, which is why we quote them together.
Which manifold fits
LFX ported intake manifold — fits 2013-2015 Cadillac ATS, 2012-2014 CTS Wagon and Coupe, 2012-2016 SRX, 2013-2019 XTS, 2012-2015 Camaro, 2012-2017 Caprice PPV, 2015-2016 Colorado and Canyon, 2013-2017 Equinox and Terrain, 2012-2020 Impala, 2012-2016 Buick LaCrosse, and Holden Caprice and Commodore variants.
LGX ported intake manifold — rear and all wheel drive fitments cover 2016-2019 Cadillac ATS, CT6 and CTS and 2016-2024 Camaro. Front and all wheel drive fitments cover 2017-2019 Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Regal GS, 2017-2025 Cadillac XT5, 2017-2023 GMC Acadia, 2019-onward Chevrolet Blazer and 2020-2025 Cadillac XT6.
Note that LFX and LGX manifolds are not interchangeable. Confirm which engine you have before ordering.
Does it hurt drivability?
No. The gains come from improved airflow rather than from aggressive tuning compromises, so everyday drivability is unaffected.
The parts
- Ported LFX intake manifold for the 2012-15 Camaro, ATS, CTS, SRX, Impala and more
- Ported LGX intake manifold for the 2016-24 Camaro, ATS, CTS, CT6 and more
- GM ported throttle body and the GM 80mm ported throttle body to pair with it
- RX Insolator manifold spacer for the LLT and LFX
FAQ
What is a ported intake manifold?
A factory intake manifold whose runners and plenum have been machined to reduce restriction and smooth airflow into the engine.
How much hp does a ported intake manifold add?
Tracy Lewis Performance quotes around 20 horsepower on the GM 3.6 V6 when paired with a ported throttle body, and 25-30 horsepower with the 80mm throttle body.
Do I need a ported throttle body as well?
The quoted gains assume the pairing. Porting the manifold alone leaves the throttle body as the remaining restriction in the air path.
Are the LFX and LGX manifolds interchangeable?
No. They are different parts. Confirm which 3.6 engine your vehicle has before ordering.
Will it affect everyday drivability?
No. The gains come from improved airflow, and everyday drivability is unaffected.